5 Checkmarks to Make Your Wedding in BC 100% Legal.

Are you one of those lucky couples who happen to have their wedding in beautiful British Columbia?

Congratulations! You have chosen the right place to get married and here are the reasons why: gorgeous views, and unique locations that come together to make your day unforgettable. Another added bonus is that the legal part of getting married in BC is so simple that you would probably be surprised! Here are 5 checkmarks legal items that have to be accomplished in the planning process of your wedding.
1) Obtain a marriage licence
The most important item in making your marriage official is getting a marriage licence. According to the BC government website both spouses don’t need to apply, only one is required to apply for a marriage licence, but he or she must apply in person, and show primary identification for both parties with the full legal names, dates and place of birth, such as the following:
• Birth certificate
• IMM/immigration form
• Permanent resident card
• Citizenship card
** The marriage licence issuer may accept a passport or driver’s licence in some circumstances.
A marriage licence costs $100, and is nonrefundable. However, if you lose your licence, you can return to the place where you bought it, and ask for a replacement. It is valid as soon as you get it but expires if you don’t get married within three months.
And one more exciting part, you don’t have to wait for your marriage license to be ready as you will receive it on the same day.
2) Be aware of the objections – “Caveat”
There is nothing to be afraid of, but it’s better to be on a safe side and be aware of any possible objections. Any person who believes there is some reason why two people should not marry can file a “caveat” with the Vital Statistics Agency. What that means is if caveat happens, a marriage licence will not be issued until the agency is satisfied that the issuing of the licence shouldn’t be prevented or the caveat is withdrawn by the person who filed it. If it comes to this, you’d better speak to a lawyer.
3) Book an officiant
This is the second most important thing to do before confirming the date of your wedding with a venue, catering, decor and others. Make sure to book and confirm availability of the officiant for your wedding. Use an officiant, either a religious representative or a marriage commissioner to perform the marriage ceremony.
PS Act fast if you are looking at the prime times ( Saturdays 3-5 pm) as the best ones will be taken by early birds.
4) Arrange 2 witnesses
Here is where you might be facing a tough choice among your friends.
5) Complete the Marriage Registration Form
Within 48 hours of the wedding ceremony, the form will be sent by the Marriage Commissioner or religious representative to the Vital Statistics Agency, where the marriage will be registered and a legal record kept. You will receive a legal Marriage Certificate from the Vital Statistics Agency after the registration of the marriage.